Adulthood

Kokkola Winter Accordion is all grown up. Eighteen years is a long time. Such a large event requires vision, drive and devotion. As the world around us constantly changes, our need for culture remains the same. Right from the start, the festival has been a launching pad for many young artists. And for older audiences we’ve provided the chance to broaden one’s cultural horizons. In the process, we’ve showcased the musical culture of countless countries. It could be said that we’ve enriched our community by exposing it to foreign cultures — something that helps us better understand the world as a whole.

The French juggler’s concert will mark the first-ever mixed-medium entry in the festival lineup: Jerome Thomas, one of the world’s best-known jugglers. Thomas combines music and circus performance in a single, dazzling performance. Then there’s Bengan Janson and Janne Åström from Stockholm, who will present traditional Swedish on-stage fun. And on Saturday evening, Tallari will break out in celebration around the raspy Pirulainen. And lunch music has been a big hit everywhere.

Come, listen, be inspired – and then reflect on the richness of this remarkable festival experience.

I’d like to thank the festival organization’s many supporters and volunteers, as well as our faithful festival-goers. And special thanks go out to Teuvo Lempiälä, our longtime chairman. Thanks, Teuvo!